Reclaiming the Prince's Heart

“He needs to stay in the hospital two more days while he undergoes more tests and works with the physiotherapist. I’ll put in orders to release him on Thursday morning. He’s in good shape considering what he’s been through. Call me if you have any questions.”

“I have one more. Will he be able to drive after he goes home?”

“We don’t know, but I’m sure you’ll find out. Again, let him be the one to decide.”

“Of course. Good night, Doctor. Thank you for everything you’ve done.”

“We’re all thankful the Prince survived.”

Luna walked him to the entrance before heading straight for Rini’s room.

“Hi! I’m back.” She wanted to fling herself into his arms.

He eyed her thoroughly. It sent shivers of delight down her spine. “I thought you’d never come.” His voice sounded more like a growl. She could believe he’d actually missed her.

“Oh, ye of little faith.” She moved the cot away from the wall and laid it out near Rini’s bed. “Before I get in, shall I turn on the TV?”

“Is that what we used to do?”

“Sometimes we watched the news or a film. Does a movie interest you? We could pick something easily understandable even if you can’t follow the language.”

She could feel his penetrating gray eyes appraise her. It made her heart beat so fast she could hardly breathe. “I think I’d rather talk and find out what Doctor Romano had to say to you.”

Was he worried? She turned off the overhead light and climbed into her cot to face him. He lay on his side with his head slightly elevated. His eyes never left her face.

“Do you want the good or the bad news first?”

“How am I supposed to answer that?” His hand had gripped the sheet in reaction. She shouldn’t have said it. His tension was too severe.

Luna sat up in the cot. “Rini—I was only kidding. It’s all good. You can go home on Thursday.”

He rubbed his jaw absently. “Not till then?” She heard his disappointment.

“That’s only two more days while he runs a few more tests.”

“Will I be free to do anything? Like fly?”

Had she heard him right? “You mean like travel on a jet?”

“I want a chopper to fly me to Rezana so I can thank the police officer for listening to you and telling you where to find me.”

“So do I. We’ll do something for the doctor, too.”

She adored her husband, who wanted to repay the people who’d helped him. His humanity was well-known among the mining community, even if he didn’t realize it. “Maybe you could talk to your grandfather and find a way to gift Doctor Miakar in a meaningful way.”

His gaze narrowed on her. “That’s an idea.”

Already, he was focusing on others, sounding more and more like her husband. She took a deep breath. “I’d love to go with you.”

“I wouldn’t go anywhere without you, Luna.”

He sounded like he meant it, but was it only because she was his link to communication? “Rini, tomorrow will you ask Doctor Romano if you’ll be under any restrictions about flying in a plane or helicopter?”

“I will.” He lowered the head of the bed and rearranged his pillow but couldn’t get it right. “I also need to learn Italian so I can talk to him myself.”

“Agreed.” Incredible that Rini had spoken it from birth. It was there in his brain somewhere. “I’ll give you your first lesson tonight if you want. Many words in Romansh have a slight similarity to Italian. You’ll learn it in no time.”

“Try me.”